The Kölner Münzkabinett
Coins & Numismatics
Coins & Numismatics
Ancient Greek and Roman coins, medieval Bracteates, Medals of the Renaissance or Early-Modern Talers – all these coins are not only collected for their beauty; they are reflections of the way in which art was understood and represented in their time. A coin collector is really an art collector of kinds. And it’s not only collectors who view coins as works of art but also the coin’s creators themselves – they even signed their coins as such. The earliest evidence dates back to the late 5th century BC, when die engravers such as Kimon and Eukleidas in Syracuse (Sicily) created some of the most beautiful ancient coins.
Just as important as the aesthetic aspect of coins, is the historical one. Coins are quite literally minted history – they mainly are precisely dated testimonies of their time revealing to us the messages the issuing authorities, rulers and cities wanted to communicate through them. The portraits of the rulers reflect their respective self-image. Other depictions convey information about their concept of rulership, or their legitimacy strategy, their successes or political alliances. Cities proudly display their deities, founding heroes or patron saints, or present important buildings and personalities. Many coins even commemorate historical events such as military victories, weddings or births. But the historical significance of coins goes far beyond their images. They are not only key sources for monetary and economic history issues, but also reflect, for example, the technological development or the expansion of territories and dominions.
Even in ancient times coins were more than just cash. They were the first mass medium in history and were regarded very early on as precious and aesthetically pleasing objects. Coins were kept for their own sake or were set in jewellery. However, they have only been collected systematically since the Renaissance. In addition to the European nobility, ordinary citizens such as merchants or scholars started to become collectors. These days, collecting coins and medals of various eras and regions remains very popular because they are among the few objects of historical significance that are usually affordable and relatively easily available. The criteria by which collectors collect their treasures, can differ. While some build a collection on an aesthetic, historical or geographical basis, others are inspired by special motifs or fascinated by particularly valuable precious metal coins.
No matter what aspect of collecting coins holds a charm for you, we share your passion and can help and advise you with extending your collection!
Aureus, Marcus Antonius, Lucius Antonius and M. Cocceius Nerva, 41 BC, mint moving with M. Antonius, bare head of M. Antonius r. / bare head of L. Antonius r., nearly extremely fine, extremely rare
Auction 104, Lot 220a, hammer price 39.000 Euro
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Do you have questions regarding coins or numismatics, or are you interested in buying or selling coins?
Do not hesitate to contact us, we would be delighted to help you.
Do not hesitate to contact us, we would be delighted to help you.